Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Glendale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in water utilities
Emergency Housing Voucher Program Funding and Transition
Federal funding for the Emergency Housing Voucher program is running out, leaving about 170 Glendale families facing relocation. City staff are working with regional agencies like HACLA and LACDA to transition families into permanent vouchers or bridge programs, though tenants face challenges with moving requirements.
Water Rate Projections and Community Concerns
Water utility customers will face potential rate adjustments following the council's authorization of the Proposition 218 notification process.
Utility Affordability and Energy Conservation in Multi-Family Housing
A long-time resident highlighted that two-thirds of Glendale lives in multi-family housing and faces severe utility debt and high energy costs. He urged the commission to explore targeted programs and prepaid metering.
GIS Utility Network Modernization
Glendale Water and Power is investing nearly $1.3 million to upgrade its core mapping and asset management technology. Commissioners debated the cost, cybersecurity, and how the tool can better serve public inquiries.
Cottage Grove Drainage Improvements
Recurring surface water runoff and standing water on Cottage Grove Avenue and Crescent Drive have created ongoing maintenance and public health issues like mosquitoes and slippery conditions. The city is launching a design-build RFP to construct a permanent drainage system connecting to a county flood control channel.
Water Conservation and Shortage Contingency Planning
Glendale Water and Power presented its 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan, showing sufficient water supplies under drought scenarios while maintaining conservation measures.
Section 8 Program Funding Shortfall and Leasing Pause
Glendale Housing Authority is operating under a federal budget shortfall, which has forced a pause on issuing new Section 8 vouchers from the waiting list.
Water Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) System Replacement
Glendale Water and Power is replacing approximately 36,000 water meters and communication endpoints to modernize utility infrastructure, improve leak detection, and ensure billing accuracy. The $24 million project addresses failing legacy equipment where nearly 40 percent of endpoints are no longer communicating.